How to master meditation during pregnancy…

Being an expectant mother is a magical time for all women. They need support and understanding more than ever. Their bodies are going through immense amounts of change, growth and transformation, and the creation of a supportive environment is of utmost importance.

After the incredible news that 3 of my friends fell pregnant recently, I wanted to share some wisdom around the benefits and implications of a meditation practice for this integral and evolutionary time of life.

There is strong scientific evidence that indicates that the body chemistry of an expectant mother has a direct impact on a baby in utero. As a society we have a tendency to think of the child as part of the world once it is born, but in reality a child in utero is already in the world. All five senses of a baby are fully developed by the second trimester. They can see light through the body tissues and detect sounds from outside the body. Understanding that the chemical reactions of the mother turn into biochemical reactions for the foetus, allows us to see the benefits of a regular meditation practice for the unborn child. Regular experience of mediation releases embedded stress and shifts the mind and body to a calm and deeply relaxed state that will directly impact your baby.

Here are some top tips on meditation for expectant and new parents:

+ A partner who meditates can offer the kind of awareness and support that a pregnant mother needs. The ability to shift with the tides of a growing mother can also be challenging for their partners. Meditation will reconnect you as a couple and provide you with an outlet of support through these changes.

+ The recommended meditation program for expectant mothers changes from the usual directions of your Vedic meditation practice. You now have free reign to listen to what your body needs and meditate as much or as little as feels comfortable for you. No timers, no specific time of day…just follow the charm (intuition) and your inner voice as to how often and when your body needs the nourishment of meditation. You may need 5 mins per day or you may need 3 sittings at 30 mins per day, you may crave a mediation during the night or right before bed. Listen to your body and lean into the advice it gives you. A woman’s body when pregnant is incredibly intuitive. Trust in the wisdom it reveals to you.

 + Meditate as much as you need up until you go into labour. Then stop meditating during labour. Your body needs the stress chemistry to deliver the child. Reconvene your meditation practice once the baby is born.

 + Meditation is a means to directly connect with an unborn baby. Most modern pregnant women have busy lifestyles either with work, home or looking after children which can act as a disconnection to their bodily changes and growing baby. With each meditation, a mother strengthens the bond with their baby. Leaving meditation your mind is clear to focus on the baby and to receive messages through your own thoughts as to what you and the baby need.

 + Cultivation of stability and adaptability are key to providing a secure environment for a child to grow in. These qualities are a gift from a regular meditation practice and assist parents in letting go of rigid attachments to time, plans and expectations.

 + There is now significant literature and resources on the importance of the first 40 days after birth, for both mother and child. HERE is a great blog post by Vital Veda on Ayuvedic Post Natal Care.

I hold private sessions and small groups of prenatal rounding days and pre birth ceremonies with expectant parents, where you receive a special mantra to be whispered into your baby’s ear when they are placed on your chest. Please get in touch if you would like to join me in a day of nourishment for mamma and baby.